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Trek to Kheerganga I always thought I had an adventurous spirit, someone who could take mountains and trek with ease. Well, Kheerganga proved me wrong. A 17 km trek to 9700 feet  in freezing cold temperatures, slipping on ice, losing all sense of how to walk—this trek had it all. Was it beautiful? Absolutely.  Would I do it again? Not even if you paid me. The Beginning: A Picture-Perfect Start We had booked our trek with Madtrek Adventures , a group that promised an exciting and well-organized experience. Our journey started from Kasol , and the cab ride to Barshaini  (the trek's starting point) was something out of a movie. We left early in the night, and by the time we reached Barshaini, the sun was just rising, painting the mountains in golden hues.  Our driver, clearly understanding our excitement, slowed down and even stopped at scenic spots so we could take pictures. That moment itself felt magical—little did I know what was coming next. Day 1: Hiking, Vibing, and Making Memories Unlike what I expected, the first half of the trek was surprisingly fun.  The route was already chosen for us by Madtrek Adventures, so all I had to do was follow along. Till Rudranag, I was thriving . I was vibing to music, walking alone at times, joining the group at other times, and just taking it all in.  Even though I came with a friend, we naturally split up, giving each other space to experience the trek in our own way. I even started vlogging, made new friends, and was really soaked in the journey. When we finally reached Rudranag Camp,  the exhaustion faded away. Our tent had an incredible view,  and we did what every excited trekker does—we clicked a million pictures and videos like there was no tomorrow. Collect moments, not things. Night at Rudranag: Dancing Away My Shyness The night was pure magic.  Bonfire, music, and dancing under the stars at -10°C.  I’m selectively extroverted , and dancing in front of a crowd with a fully conscious mind? Absolutely not.  But that night, something shifted. Maybe it was the warmth of the bonfire, the infectious energy of the group, or just the magic of the mountains—but I let go. I danced, laughed, and even learned Himachal’s traditional dance.  At that moment, I wasn’t overthinking—I was just living , and it felt like I was part of something bigger, something unforgettable. After hours of dancing and laughing, we finally crawled into our tents hoping to wake up early for the final climb.  But the night had one more surprise for me. Under the stars, the mountains feel like home Day 2: Losing All Sense of Walking The moment I woke up, I knew something was wrong. I couldn’t feel my legs—especially my toes.  Even though we were provided with 3-4 thick blankets , the cold was unbearable. Getting out of the tent was a struggle, but somehow, I managed. The only saving grace was the kitchen —a warm haven where no outsiders were allowed, but the kind-hearted cook let us in for a few minutes to warm up by the firewood. And then, at 8 AM , we started our final climb to Kheerganga. At first, I was fine. Halfway through, I even thought, "Okay, this isn’t so bad." And then, I slipped. That one slip changed everything. A snowy path is a story waiting to be told. The Panic: Forgetting How to Walk The moment I fell on the ice, something switched in my brain. I completely forgot how to walk.  My body froze—not because of the cold, but because of fear.  I looked around, watching other people trek like it was nothing, and I kept thinking, "How do they know how to walk? How do their legs work?" I lost all my senses.  My mind went blank. My confidence shattered. From that point on, I had to be helped every few steps.  Our trek guides, my fellow trekkers, and even strangers kept supporting me, encouraging me, and pulling me forward.  Without them, I would have never finished this trek. And honestly, my shoes didn’t help.  They were slippery, making every step a battle against gravity. Each time someone else slipped, my fear grew stronger.  My heart raced. My mind kept looping with the same thoughts: "How am I going to finish this?" "How will I climb down?" "Is this how I die?" But somehow, I reached the top. The Summit: Tea, Photos, and A Little Hope Standing at Kheerganga’s peak , drinking hot tea with fellow trekkers, taking in the view—it should have felt like victory. But all I could think about was, "How am I supposed to get down now?" I genuinely believed I wouldn’t make it back. But then, my guide had a brilliant idea.  He made me wear socks over my shoes to create grip  and reduce the slipperiness. And guess what? It worked like magic. I felt like I had just learned to walk again. Step by step, I started regaining confidence,  and slowly, we made our way down. When we finally reached the end point, I was just grateful to be alive. Footprints fade, but the snow always remembers. Final Thoughts: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience (Literally) Looking back, Kheerganga was one of the most beautiful, challenging, and unforgettable experiences of my life.  It taught me so much—not just about trekking, but about trusting people, pushing my limits, and surviving without my phone for two days. Would I recommend this trek? Yes. Would I do it again? Not in this lifetime. But one thing’s for sure—I’ll never forget the people, the struggles, the laughs, and the moment I finally crossed the finish line alive. Warmly Jes 💜

Its Just Me and My Life Welcome back to my blog!💜 As the year winds down, I find myself reflecting on the rollercoaster of moments that made 2024 unforgettable. This post isn’t just a recap—it’s a heartfelt thank-you, a bit of an apology, and a glimpse into my journey of growth. So, grab your favorite drink, and let’s dive into the highs, lows, and lessons. Let me start with a story: Me, standing on the vibrant streets of Bangkok, the night alive with colors, sounds, and the irresistible aroma of street food. The city feels electric, buzzing with life. I stop by a tiny stall, grab a plate of pad Thai, and sit down by myself to savor the moment. It’s simple, but it feels like freedom—a reminder that I chose this life of exploration and self-discovery. From there, the journey continued to the serene beaches of Phuket, where I sat on the sand, staring at the waves. The ocean has a way of humbling you, doesn’t it? It’s like it whispers, "You’re small, but your dreams are big, so keep going."  And in that moment, I realized how far I’ve come—not just physically but emotionally. But this life wasn’t handed to me on a silver platter. It came with sacrifices, sleepless nights, and yes, hurt—both given and received. So, before anything else, let me say this: if I’ve hurt you this year, knowingly or unknowingly, I’m sorry. Truly. And to those who’ve hurt me, I forgive you. Not for your sake, but for mine. Because holding onto bitterness feels like carrying a heavy suitcase when all you really need for the journey is a light backpack. If you’ve been following my blog, you know I’ve always been about "be strong, stay strong, and survive alone."  But this year, something shifted. Strength doesn’t just mean enduring the tough times—it also means opening yourself up to joy, to new adventures, and to ticking off the dreams you’ve been too scared to chase. For me, that meant traveling solo, experiencing life in different cities, and making memories that felt straight out of a movie. Exploring the chaos of Bangkok and the calm of Phuket reminded me that life is about balance—the fast and the slow, the loud and the quiet. And yes, I know what some of you might be thinking: "Her life looks perfect on the outside."   Trust me, it’s not. There have been tears, self-doubt, and times when I questioned everything. But I’ve learned that it’s okay to let go of perfection and embrace progress. One last thing: can we talk about energy? This year has taught me that the energy you put out is the energy you get back. So, if you’ve ever felt envious or unhappy about someone else’s journey (even mine), take a deep breath and let it go. Jealousy is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to suffer. Instead, focus on your own path—it’s the only one that matters. As for me, I’m stepping into 2025 with gratitude, an open heart, and a suitcase packed with dreams. Karma works both ways, my friends. Let’s all make sure we’re sending out good vibes. Here’s to choosing ourselves, chasing our dreams, and living life on our own terms. Ready for more adventures? I know I am.🍷 Until next year, Stay strong, stay kind, and keep ticking those dreams off your list. Warmly Jes💜

"I Was Never Their First Choice, So I Became My Own." For as long as I can remember, I was always the backup plan ~the afterthought. Whether at work or in friendship, it often felt like I was standing on the sidelines, waiting for someone to notice me, to choose me. But that moment never came. I spent countless nights wondering, Why am I never enough? Why do I always come second? Then, one day, something shifted. It wasn’t sudden, but it was powerful. I remember listening to RM of BTS speak about their Love Myself  campaign. He said something that stayed with me: “No matter who you are, where you’re from, your skin color, your gender identity: just speak yourself. Find your name, find your voice by speaking yourself.” I realized that I had been waiting for others to validate me—to say, “You matter.” But I hadn’t given that validation to myself. How could I expect others to choose me when I hadn’t even chosen myself? It was a harsh truth, but it was what I needed to hear. That’s when I decided: No more waiting.  I chose me. BTS’s “Epiphany”  became my guiding light during that transformation. The lyrics spoke to me like nothing ever had: "I'm the one I should love in this world, 빛나는 나를 소중한 내 영혼을 이제야 깨달아 So I love me." Translation: "I'm the one I should love in this world, The shining me, the precious soul of mine. So I love me." Hearing those words was like unlocking a door I never knew existed. It wasn’t about being perfect or fitting someone else’s standards—it was about seeing my own worth. I stopped chasing the idea of being someone’s first choice because I finally understood: I’m already enough. Four years later, I still find myself in moments where I’m overlooked or underestimated. But now, it doesn’t sting the way it used to. Why? Because I’ve made peace with myself. I’ve become my own first choice, and that’s all that matters. Another song that resonates deeply with me is “Answer: Love Myself.” "You’ve shown me I have reasons I should love myself 내 숨 내 걸어온 길 전부로 답해" Translation: "You’ve shown me I have reasons I should love myself All of my breath and the path I’ve walked answer me." These words remind me that self-love isn’t about having it all figured out. It’s about embracing every step of the journey—the highs, the lows, the flaws, and the victories. Choosing myself first doesn’t mean I’ve stopped caring about others; it means I’ve stopped letting them define me. J-Hope once said: 💜 “Before loving others, you must first love yourself.” 💜 And that’s exactly what I’ve been doing. There was a time when being alone felt like a heavy weight I couldn’t bear. It made me feel invisible, like I didn’t belong. But now, solitude is my sanctuary. It’s where I reconnect with myself, where I remind myself that I’m whole, just as I am. I’m not lonely—I’m at peace. I started living alone and stopped caring about others—even my closest friends. At first, it felt strange, but then I realized something: it was always like this. Nothing had changed but my mindset. And the moment I set myself free, my heart felt light. Going out alone became more enjoyable. Meeting strangers and sharing new thoughts with them opened my eyes. Simple things like eating at a restaurant alone or going to the cinema by myself became some of the best days of my life. Yes, it was hard to take that first step. But once I did, it was the best decision I ever made. And I’m so thankful I realized it sooner, while so many are still struggling to take that leap. So, close your eyes and take that first step. I promise, you’ll start seeing yourself—and the world—from an entirely different perspective. Whether you’re single or in a relationship, married or unmarried, a man or a woman—it doesn’t matter. Take that step for you. You can thank me later. Warmly, Jes💜

Discover my journey from being a cherished daughter to becoming a strong, independent woman, breaking stereotypes along the way. Past me For the first 20 years, I leaned comfortably on my family's support. It felt like having a safety net where my parents took care of everything. But then, reality knocked on my door and handed me a ticket to the grown-up world. At home, I was known as "Daddy's Little Princess." I didn't have to lift a finger – everything was right there when I needed it. My house was the fortress of comfort and abundance. The term "struggle" was like a foreign language, and that was fine until the day I realized there was a world beyond my family’s protective shield. But guess what? Beyond those walls, life had a different script waiting for me. Breaking the chain of dependence Back home, life was super comfortable. I never had to worry about going places because my family always took me. Even if they were busy or not feeling well, they'd drop me off or pick me up. It was like having a safety net. But when I went to college far away, things changed. I realized how much I depended on them. Watching my family struggle to manage everything made me think. I knew I had to grow up and face things on my own. Traveling alone scared me at first, but I decided to give it a shot. I wanted to learn how to stand on my own feet. Their hard work pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and take charge, even if it meant doing things that felt scary. The Clash of Expectations Oh Man, did things change when I decided to spread my wings! Suddenly, the world outside my cozy cocoon had opinions – and not the complimentary kind. Society raised its eyebrows at a girl daring to choose independence over settling down at a "certain age." Who knew there was a set expiration date for life decisions? The Reality of Independence You know, independence isn't all glitz and glamour like those perfect Instagram shots. Who needs a Road map for life when you're nailing each chapter? My journey wasn't a fairy-tale parade; it felt more like riding a rollercoaster through life's messy realities. But you know what? I'm loving every bit of it. But people were gossiping about my different choices. When I moved to a new place for work, let's just say it was a hot mess. The struggle with the language, the food, and the money? Real. I love fancy stuff, but affording it on my own? That's a comedy in itself. I daydream about owning them one day, but for now, I cherish what I have. Most of my things? Gifts from my brother. And even though they're gifts, the guilt of spending his cash lingers. I promise myself to pay him back someday. Emotions, struggles, guilt – it's all part of this crazy, beautiful ride. Living Life on My Terms I stepped into the unknown- armed with a Ph.D. and six years of being a grown-up. Initially, I thought I needed a company for my adventures, but guess what? I found happiness going solo. Turns out, doing things on your own isn't just for specific heroes – it's for everyone! But once you taste being alone, there's no going back! Honestly, it's a game-changer. My life's like a painting made up of my choices, experiences, and a strong desire for freedom. I'm not just breaking the rules; I'm creating new ones with bright, bold colors. Speaking of adventures, living alone, taking solo trips – I've explored so many places and plan to see more (I'll write a blog soon to share all my travel stories with you). But here's the twist: this journey isn't always smooth sailing. There are tough moments, trust me. When there's no one to lean on, it can get hard. Sometimes even the support you expect might not bring comfort. Luckily, I've learned to take care of myself. Whether it's treating myself to new clothes or diving into a tub of ice cream, self-care has become my thing. And you know who's the secret superhero in my life? BTS! Their music is like a warm, comforting blanket on the coldest days. Their tunes pick me up quicker than caffeine in the morning – absolute lifesavers! Advice for those seeking Independence You know, chasing independence? It's like trying to figure out a tricky puzzle - exciting but full of surprises. One thing I've learned: never depend too much on anyone, not even family. To all you bold adventurers eyeing independence: listen up! It's no cakewalk. It demands guts, prep, and a heart of steel. But lemme tell ya, the freedom at the end? Totally worth it! Funny thing, I used to stick with friends for adventures. Then life hit me with its surprises - lost friendships, rode through storms – and I changed gears. Now? I'm a lone wolf. Not 'cause I'm shutting the world out, but 'cause I've learned to stand tall on my own. I've learned the ropes of being on my own, and let me say, it's pretty darn liberating! Present Me I'm in the here and now, rockin' the 26-going-on-27 phase, bossing it in my career, ticking off achievements like a pro. Self-reliance? Nailed it! And you know what's cooler than cool? My parents? They're bursting with pride. Sure, they've got open arms, but once I go back, who knows if I'll fly away again? From palace life to reigning independently, I've seen it all. And let me tell you, it's a wild, thrilling ride! For anyone eyeing this path, listen up: it's not all sparkles and sunshine. But if you're ready to face the storms and find your strength in solitude, welcome to the League of Independence! Every challenge becomes a lesson, and every moment? An adventure waiting to happen. You've got this! Warmly Jes 💜

Overview of the challenges and excitement of being 26 and entering full-fledged adulthood. Finding Your Footing Away from Home Living far from home is difficult. I've spent most of my life outside my home and hometown, which taught me how to fit in wherever I go. But being an adult in a new place? That's a whole new challenge. When everything feels too much. There were moments I felt out of my depth and unsure of how to navigate it all. But it's really okay. Take it step by step. Ask for help when you need it. And don't forget about yourself. Take breaks, read, go for walks—do things that make you feel good. Find ways to take care of yourself I've learned that adulthood is a whole different ball game. But with time, being kind to yourself, and asking for help, things start feeling more familiar. You're not alone in feeling overwhelmed, and you'll find your way. Struggling with Finances and Basic Needs When money is tight, it's incredibly hard. I've been there myself. When I moved to a new city as a student, I depended on my parents for everything. But there were moments when things got really tight. I remember nights when I went to bed hungry because I felt embarrassed to ask my parents for help. I thought asking for help at the age of 26 was an embarrassing thing. It's a scary feeling when you're struggling to afford even the basics. During those times, I learned the value of simplicity. Finding cheaper ways to eat and live became a necessity. I realized the importance of focusing on what I really needed, rather than what I wanted. Stay positive; believe in yourself If you're going through something similar, please know you're not alone. Try to simplify things and find cheaper ways to get by. Focus on what you really need. Taking small steps can make a big difference. Remember, tough times don't last forever. Be patient and kind to yourself as you sort things out. Loneliness and Losing Connections Being far from friends can feel really lonely, and I understand that feeling. I've been in a place where I thought I lost all my friends. But I realized that true friends stick around, even if they're few. Some I met online later, and now I trust them completely. People have their own lives, and some might drift away without a reason. Don't hesitate to reach out; it might just brighten both your days. However, you don't have to lose touch completely. It's okay to miss your friends. Reaching out through messages or video calls can help bridge that gap. Sharing your feelings with someone you trust, even if they're online friends, can make a big difference. It might take time, but you'll find new friends and feel connected again. Work-life Cycle: Balancing Responsibilities Finding a balance between work and life is key. Don't let work take over completely. I've learned this from my own experience. Sometimes, work can encroach on every aspect of life if you're not careful. There were instances when being too flexible at work led to being expected to work longer hours, leaving no time for myself. A balanced life makes you happier and more productive. To carve out time for self-care, I decided to join boxing—a sport that initially caught my interest because someone I admired was passionate about it. Surprisingly, once I began, I found genuine love for the sport. Strive for a balance that allows you to enjoy both work and life outside of it. so,  I established a rule: no work after 6 PM. Remember, taking care of yourself isn't selfish; it helps you do better at work and feel better overall Coping with Strained Mental Health Sometimes, when life gets overwhelming, we forget about taking care of our mental health. I've been there, feeling like everything else is more important. But looking after your mental well-being isn't selfish; it's necessary. I've had times when my mind didn't feel right, but I learned how to handle it. Some days, I felt like crying for no reason, and other times, I felt really sad but couldn't even cry. It's a phase many of us go through after a certain age. Coping with it alone, especially far from home, can be difficult. Self-care isn't selfish — it's essential So, I started helping out at NGOs. Despite my own mental health struggles, I wanted to assist those in need. Witnessing the joy in the eyes of the children I helped every weekend healed my soul and provided me with the strength to keep going. Distraction became a valuable tool for me. Additionally, the music and message of BTS played a significant role in helping me overcome certain challenges. It's okay to take a break, and do things that relax you, like going for a walk or talking to someone you trust. Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Your mental health is important, and taking care of it helps you deal with life's challenges better. Rekindling Self-Care and Rediscovering Balance Taking care of yourself often gets lost in our busy lives. I've been there, forgetting to focus on what makes me feel good. But I've learned that self-care isn't just about treating yourself; it's about finding balance within. Love Yourself It's okay to take a trip alone or do things just for you, like treating yourself to a day of relaxation or pursuing a hobby that brings you joy. You don't always need someone else's company to enjoy life. Spending time with yourself can become something you really love. It's about building a strong relationship with yourself, and that can bring you a lot of happiness. Embracing the Journey Being far from home, dealing with lots of responsibilities, and feeling down can be really tough. I've been there, feeling overwhelmed by it all. But I've found that talking to others, getting support, and being kind to myself really helps. You're stronger than you know. These hard times can actually help you grow. By sharing your story, helping others, and being nice to yourself, you'll find the strength to take control, find balance, and discover who you are in this new place away from home. Take care and remember, sharing your story can make a difference. If you ever feel like sharing more or need a friendly ear, you know where to find me. Until we meet again in the next blog, where we'll explore more about the future or reflect on the past, stay well and keep moving forward. Warmly Jes 💜

About Me!!! Hey there, fellow wanderers of the internet universe! 🌟 Welcome aboard the wacky wagon of "Journeying with J"! I'm Jes, and I'm here to guide you through this quirky expedition into the wild world of whimsy, wonder, and... well, me, a human with a heart of gold (or maybe just a heart-shaped pizza lover, who knows?). Big bear hugs and a sprinkle of confetti to all you marvelous souls who stumbled upon this virtual hideout! Whether you're here by destiny or accidentally clicked the wrong link, hold tight because we're about to take a rollercoaster ride through the carnival of life! Purpose of this blog Here at "Journeying with J," we're not just going on any ordinary journey. No siree! We're diving into a bubbling cauldron of adventures, mishaps, and life's unexpected twirls, all flavored with a dash of absurdity and a sprinkle of heartwarming tales. It's like stumbling upon a treasure chest of memes, musings, and life hacks – but in blog form! Engagement Invitation This isn't just a one-sided shindig! I want to hear your tales, your thoughts, and your epic fails (and wins too, of course). So, please drop by the comment section, leave a sprinkle of your personality, and let's turn this into a virtual party where everyone's invited! Personal Touch Picture this: a human with a heart of gold (or chocolate, depending on the day) attempting to adult, but somehow tripping over the shoelaces... metaphorically. Yeah, that's me, your guide- through this whimsical circus called life. Gratitude to Readers Huge thank-yous, high-fives, and virtual cupcakes to your lovely souls who've found their way here! Your presence in this digital wonderland means more to me than finding the perfect Wi-Fi signal on a deserted island. Sign Off Strap on your seatbelts, fellow adventurers, and let's dive into this whirlwind of whimsy together! 🚀🌟 Warmly, Jes 💜